10 September 2015

Media Release

There was a general pattern of decline in domestic tourism over the past two years, 2013 and 2014 with the total number of day trips decreasing from 54, 4 million in 2013 to 48 million in 2014. This is according to the Domestic tourism survey 2014 report released by Statistics South Africa.

Overnight trips decreased from 50,8 million in 2013 to 47,3 million in 2014. December and January generated the highest number of trips, when compared to other months within the reference period.

Despite the downward trend, the total expenditure on day trips increased from R35 billion in 2013 to R39 billion. Overnight expenditure increased from R68,5 in 2013 to R71 billion in 2014.This increase in expenditure has largely been driven by increased spending in the higher living standard measure subgroup (i.e. LSM 8 – 10).Individuals in the LSM 1-4 were less likely to travel than individuals from LSM 8-10.

Gauteng and Limpopo were the most popular destinations for day travelers. Tourists (overnight travellers) mostly visited KwaZulu-Natal and Limpopo. Most money spent during day trips was spent in Gauteng, whereas overnight expenditure occurred in KwaZulu-Natal.

The biggest spending during day trips was on shopping, while overnight expenditure was on domestic transport and shopping.

Most tourists undertook overnight trips mainly to visit friends and relatives and preferred using taxi (above 60%). Most tourists used unpaid accommodation and stayed with friends and relatives. Tourists spent one week at their destinations. Day trips were for shopping purposes.

Ends

Issued by Statistics South Africa